Munich Security Conference (MSC) and Binding Hook proudly announce the AI-Cybersecurity Essay Prize Competition, inviting experts to explore the impact of Artificial Intelligence on cybersecurity.

This competition seeks insightful analyses on the implications for Europe and recommendations for policymakers, with an opportunity for winners to be recognized at an international forum.

Vision

At the heart of the AI-Cybersecurity Essay Prize Competition is our aim to deepen understanding of AI's role in cybersecurity. As cyber threats rapidly evolve, AI is at the forefront, shaping the next generation of cyber defenses and bringing new challenges and opportunities.

This competition invites researchers in cybersecurity and AI to put forward their perspectives on this crucial issue. A particular emphasis is placed on understanding the consequences for Europe, urging participants to delve into how these technological shifts affect European security and policy.

Winners will not only receive a monetary reward but also have their work published on Binding Hook, and be celebrated at the 2025 Munich Security Conference (February 14-16, 2025).

Essay Question

"How will Artificial Intelligence change cybersecurity, and what are the implications for Europe? Discuss potential strategies that policymakers can adopt to navigate these changes."

Review Board

The review board is co-chaired by Kersti Kaljulaid, former President of the Republic of Estonia, and Shashank Joshi, Defence Editor at The Economist. It also includes the following experts: Heather Adkins, VP, Security Engineering & Head of Office of Cybersecurity Resilience at Google; Klaus Hommels, founder of Lakestar and Chair of the Board of Directors of the NATO Innovation Fund; Mikko Hyppönen, a security and privacy expert; Maria Markstedter, founder of Azeria Labs; Eva Maydell, Member of the European Parliament; and Max Smeets, Co-Director of ECCRI and Managing Editor of Binding Hook.

Awards

The prizes for the top essays are as follows:

• 1st Place: €10,000
• Runner-Up: €5,000
• 3rd Place: €2,500
• 4th-5th Places: €1,000

The author of the winning essay will be invited to attend the 2025 Munich Security Conference (February 14-16, 2025), where they will be honored at the award ceremony. This presents a unique opportunity to stand in the global spotlight, engaging with leaders and innovators from various sectors and sharing insights on the pivotal role of AI in shaping the future of cybersecurity.

Submission Deadline

The deadline for essay submissions is 2 January 2025, 00:00 am CET. Read more about the competition and submit your essay here.

From November 26, 2024, the European Cyber Conflict Research Initiative (ECCRI) and the European Cyber Conflict Research Incubator (ECCRI CIC) operate under one umbrella brand - Virtual Routes. Read more about Virtual Routes here.